Some members of the Tesla community are currently directing a movie about the incredible life of inventor, Nikola Tesla — Electricity, The Life Story of Nikola Tesla. Tesla is the scientist was mostly credited with the invention of alternating current. After The Oatmeal proclaimed him as the greatest geek and helped the new Tesla museum raise one million dollars, Tesla is currently under the spotlights.
His work was essential to make electricity a commercial success because direct current cannot be transported efficiently. Yet, what is fascinating in Tesla’s story is that he used magic to spread the word about his invention.
The duo behind the movie is very serious about the project. Wilhelm Cashen is an engineer and entrepreneur with a long career in electromagnet controls and systems. Carol Bourgeouis has spent years studying and reading Tesla’s life and work.
The targeted audience of the Kickstarter project is clearly the hardcore fan of Tesla’s identity as the incentives indicate it. You can pledge $5 to get a Tesla button. Even more interesting, when you pledge $10 or more, you get a nice “I’m Helping to Correct History” sticker. Other goodies are available as well as copies of the movie when it’s finished. One backer even pledged $5,000 to become a producer and visit sets.
There are only four days to go. With $15,330 pledged of a goal of $35,000 to complete the production costs, the project may be a little too much targeted toward the Tesla fans. Nevertheless, seeing a project carried with so much passion is an inspiration.
Tesla has over 700 patents with his name revolving around radio, wireless telegraphy, remote control and even robotics. But he accumulated many debts and did not have the successful life he deserved.
Here is an insightful quote from Tesla: “We build but to tear down. Most of our work and resource is squandered. Our onward march is marked by devastation. Everywhere there is an appalling loss of time, effort and life. A cheerless view, but true.”